8 Tips for Hiring an HVAC Contractor Who’s Right for the Job

hvac contractor, Long Island, New YorkKnowing What to Look For in a Quality HVAC Contractor

Why do so many people worry when hiring an HVAC contractor? Perhaps it’s because a home’s heating and cooling system is a key element when it comes to keeping your home happy and healthy. Continue reading “8 Tips for Hiring an HVAC Contractor Who’s Right for the Job”

Keeping a High Efficiency Air Conditioner in Top Form

high efficiency air conditioner, Long Island, New YorkGetting the Most From Your AC System

If you have purchased a high efficiency air conditioner for your home, you need to know about the FACTS. What we are talking about are the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) FACTS. Continue reading “Keeping a High Efficiency Air Conditioner in Top Form”

Your A/C Installation: You Know About Manual J and Manual D, but What About Manual S?

a/c installation, Long Island, New YorkIf you haven’t undertaken an A/C installation before (or at least a proper A/C upgrade or installation), you may be surprised by the volume of information acquired. Continue reading “Your A/C Installation: You Know About Manual J and Manual D, but What About Manual S?”

Your New Air Conditioner: Installation Issues That Profoundly Affect Performance

air conditioner installation, Long Island, New YorkReading efficiency labels is important when purchasing a new cooling system, but it’s only half the battle. Although you may not give it much thought, the air conditioner installation process plays a huge role in securing efficiency ratings and performance values. Continue reading “Your New Air Conditioner: Installation Issues That Profoundly Affect Performance”

Tend to Your Air Conditioner Maintenance Now, Before Long Island Heats Up

air conditioner maintenance, Long Island, New YorkLonger Days Means It’s Time to Get Ready for Summer

The ideal time for air conditioner maintenance is in the spring, so your system is functioning at its highest level of efficiency before the summer heat arrives. Continue reading “Tend to Your Air Conditioner Maintenance Now, Before Long Island Heats Up”

Water Heater’s Underperforming? Troubleshooting Tips to Get It Back on Track

showerhead Long IslandA Hot Water Heater That Can’t Deliver on a Promise of Hot Water Needs Attention

 

Can you barely make it through your shower before the hot water is gone? Is washing dishes a challenge with dwindling hot water? Is “hot” water a bit of a misnomer at your house? If so, it’s probably time to take a look at your water heater.

While some water heater issues are best left to an HVAC professional, there are some things you can do yourself if your water heater’s underperforming.

  • Insulate the heater. Is your water heater located in an unheated basement area or utility room? If so, the unit is having to work hard during the cold winter months to deliver that hot water on demand. Save energy dollars and increase the amount of hot water available by insulating your water tank. Most home improvement stores sell specially-designed, insulated blankets that fit snugly over water tanks.
  • Don’t forget the pipes. In addition to the tank, your heated water may be losing its warmth traveling through cold pipes. If the pipes leading from the water heater are in a cold part of the house, consider buying special insulation wraps to help keep the water in them warm.
  • Is it the element? Your hot water challenges may be caused by a problem with the heating elements (on electric heaters), pilot light or thermostat. Have someone check these three essentials to make sure they’re functioning properly.

If you’ve checked these three common trouble spots and your water is still lukewarm at best, it’s probably time to call an HVAC professional to identify the source of the problem.

If  your water heater’s underperforming or you need help with  other mechanical systems in your Long Island home, give T.F. O’Brien Cooling & Heating a call. We’ve been helping homeowners throughout Long Island with their heating and cooling needs since 1934.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics,  download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Image via  Shutterstock.com

Have You Changed Your Furnace Filter Lately? You Should

changing the furnace filter, Long Island, New YorkYour Furnace Needs Fresh Air and Changing Your Filter Does Just That

 

When the colder seasons get into full swing, it’s time to make sure your furnace is in proper working condition. Scheduling preventive maintenance for your furnace is important, but so is changing the furnace filter. Continue reading “Have You Changed Your Furnace Filter Lately? You Should”

Need A New HVAC System? Do A Load Calculation First

load calculation, Long Island, New YorkKnowing How Your Home Uses Energy Will Help You Choose Wisely

 

If you’re starting the process of choosing a new HVAC system, the first and most important step to take is getting a load calculation. Continue reading “Need A New HVAC System? Do A Load Calculation First”

Avoid The Big Chill With A Water Heater Tune-Up

water heater tune-up, Long Island, New YorkWater Heater Maintenance Improves Performance

 

Your water heater works hard on a daily basis to provide a continuous supply of hot water. To maintain continuous function, it’s necessary to schedule a regular water heater tune-up.   Continue reading “Avoid The Big Chill With A Water Heater Tune-Up”